Being able to carry out small repairs at home by yourself is at a premium. In addition to replacing a light bulb with a new one, maintaining appliances or making simple plumbing repairs, it’s worth knowing how to dismantle and replace a door handle. At first, this task may seem complicated, but in fact even an amateur can manage it in half an hour. Our experts have prepared a short guide which will show you how to install a handle both on a new and old door leaf. We hope you enjoy the read!
Door handle – an aesthetic detail that will change your interior
Choosing the right door handle is of great importance for our safety, comfort of use, as well as the aesthetics of the interior. A well-chosen one should be easy to operate and durable, so that it can serve us for many years and, if necessary, replacing its individual parts was not problematic. Most of the products available on the market have been designed with exceptional attention to detail. By maintaining the door handle on an ongoing basis, tightening loose parts and replacing the worn ones, we can extend its durability and enjoy its trouble-free operation. If you would like to freshen up the look of your door a little by replacing your door handle with a new one, or simply replace a broken one, below we have prepared a handful of useful information on how to replace a door handle.
How to dismantle and install a new door handle?
Dismantling an old door handle and replacing it with a new one is an extremely simple task that even a layman with no manual skills can manage. Below, we explain step-by-step how to replace a door handle simply and effectively. Before starting the work, it is worth preparing the area by removing all elements from the surroundings that will restrict our freedom of movement. We should ensure adequate lighting and gather all the necessary tools. A pencil, a Phillips screwdriver and an Allen key will come in handy. In the case of a new door, a drill will be necessary. Normally, we start with dismantling the old model, which is the easiest part of the job. We must unscrew the Allen screws at the bottom of the door handle and then the escutcheons surrounding it, which can also be mounted with an Allen screw or threaded screws. In the case of a door handle with an escutcheon, before buying a new one, we should check the spacing between the door handle stem and the lock in the current escutcheon, as there are two versions: 72 and 92 mm. Next, we must insert fixing mechanisms of the new door handles and check that the old screw holes match the new ones, otherwise they must be made in new places. Dust and dirt should then be removed with a hoover with a suitable nozzle so that they do not enter the lock and cause it to jam. The next step is to insert the stem in the hole and place the door handle in the correct, horizontal position, as well as to tighten the screws that fix the rosette. Next, we must assemble the escutcheon cover, which is necessary to cover the screws in an aesthetically pleasing manner. This is done on both sides of the door leaf. If the elements have been positioned correctly, i.e., symmetrically to the edge of the door leaf and in relation to each other, the door handles can be installed. Finally, it is necessary to check that the door handle works properly and moves without friction and obstruction, and that the lock can be easily turned. The entire mechanism should operate smoothly without any resistance. After a few weeks it is good to check that everything works properly.
Why to replace a door handle?
For many people, installing a new door handle is simply a necessity due to a broken mechanism. However, it is worth considering replacing it for aesthetic reasons. This small detail can significantly change the character and face of any door, creating a perfect complement to any interior design. The number of designs and colours available will allow us to easily select the ideal model. They are available in a matt, steel or chrome version, extremely ornate or with a minimalist and modern design. It is worth matching the door handle not only to the style of the door leaf, but also to the individual elements of the interior design. It is worth choosing this door element according to the type of room and its function, as well as the people who will use it most often. Some models will be suitable in the case of household members such as young children and the elderly, while other, completely different ones, will be ideal for stylised, rich interiors.